Qantas has announced plans to launch a second international flight from Darwin, introducing direct flights between the Northern Territory and Singapore.
The new service from Australia’s ‘Top End’ is scheduled to launch in December 2024 and will provide more than 60,000 additional seats per year on the route.
Direct from Top End to Singapore
Qantas will operate these innovative flights five days a week from 9 December 2024 using dual-class Embraer E190 aircraft.
This frequency will increase to daily service from March 2025, providing greater convenience for Territory residents.
You no longer have to endure the hassle of long connecting flights through other Australian cities to reach Singapore, which can save you a lot of time.
E190 base established in Darwin
The establishment of an E190 base at Darwin Airport is critical to the realization of this ambitious project.
The E190’s size, range, and economy enable new routes previously thought unfeasible for large aircraft.
This achievement follows the successful launch of international flights to Dili in 2022 and further strengthens Darwin’s position as a growing aviation hub.
Cam Wallace, Qantas International CEOexpressed enthusiasm for Singapore’s services and highlighted the positive impact it will have on trade, business and tourism links between Australia and Singapore.
This direct service will not only benefit Territorial residents traveling to Singapore, but will also provide seamless connectivity to various destinations in London, Europe and Asia, effectively cutting travel time by hours. .
UK link restoration
The new route marks the restoration of links with the UK that were first established when borders reopened after the pandemic.
Qantas has temporarily rerouted its London flights through Darwin, demonstrating the airline’s commitment to fostering global connectivity with support from the Northern Territory Government and Darwin Airport.
Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Joel Bordensees this new service as a significant milestone for Darwin’s aviation capabilities.
He believes this is great news for Territorial residents, offering more choice, competitiveness and enhanced connectivity.
The flight not only caters to local residents seeking international travel, but also strengthens links with international markets and benefits the growing business traveler base.
Qantas history in Darwin Singapore
Underscoring Qantas’ historical importance, Darwin served as the final stop on the original Kangaroo route from Australia to London in 1935.
Qantas has maintained a commitment to this route for many years, with Darwin being a key link in its international network. This direct flight cuts the flight time from Darwin to Singapore from several days to just 4 hours and 45 minutes.
Eligible Qantas customers and frequent flyers will enjoy exclusive access to the Qantas Club in Darwin before passing through immigration and security.
These customers will have the added benefit of access to the Qantas International First Lounge or Business Lounge at Singapore’s Changi Airport upon their return home.
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